Resolution Adopted by the CCAR

100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE JEWISH NATIONAL
FUND

Adopted by the 113th Annual
Convention
of the Central Conference of American Rabbis
Jerusalem, Israel
March, 2002

Background

During its
first fifty years, the Jewish National Fund purchased land throughout
Palestine. Jews from around the world collected spare change in
"Blue Boxes" so that a return to the Jewish national homeland would
be possible. By the time Israel was established in 1948, JNF owned
12.5% of all the Land of Israel. 80% of Israel's population now
lives on this land.

During its second fifty years, Jewish National Fund focused on the
development of the land for the people. It addressed issues of
afforestation and providing Israel with healthy green space; building
infrastructures for new communities for Israel's growing population;
building access roads to help disperse the population; providing
employment for new olim; and improving the quality of life for
Israelis throughout the country.

Currently, Jewish National Fund is a major force in
Israeli water resource development through projects that have
increased Israel's water supply by 6%. JNF continues its activity in
the areas of afforestation and ecology, education, research and
development, tourism and recreation. Since 1901, JNF has planted over
210 million trees, built over 120 dams and reservoirs, developed over
250,000 acres of land, created more than 400 parks and educated
students around the world about Israel and the environment.

We recognize that the
JNF has, within the last few years, taken a serious look at its own
inner-workings and has taken important steps to maintain itself as a
responsible and efficient fund-raising organization.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT
THE CCAR:

Applauds Jewish National Fund on its centennial
anniversary;

Acknowledges all of the fine work JNF has done over
the past hundred years and recognizes its impact in the development of
Eretz Yisrael;

Urges continued support for JNF and its projects,
thereby enhancing the vitality of Israeli life.